Coleus ‘Dark Star’ is a distinctive ornamental plant, celebrated for its deep, dark foliage. Gardeners choose this variety to introduce dramatic color and texture to landscapes and containers. Its rich, almost black appearance adds depth and elegance to garden designs.
Key Characteristics of Coleus ‘Dark Star’
Coleus ‘Dark Star’ features deep purple to nearly black leaves with a subtle sheen and often a scalloped edge. This dark coloration provides a striking contrast against lighter plants. The plant typically exhibits a compact, bushy, and upright growth habit, forming a tidy mound of foliage.
Mature plants generally reach a height of 1 to 3 feet and a similar spread. It serves as a focal point in containers, borders, or garden beds, particularly in shaded areas where its dark leaves create a bold visual impact. The velvety texture of its large leaves further enhances its ornamental value.
Growing and Care Guide
Optimal light conditions for Coleus ‘Dark Star’ range from partial to full shade, which helps maintain its vibrant, dark foliage color. Intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves or cause the color to fade. For the most intense color, morning sun followed by afternoon shade is recommended.
Consistent moisture is important for Coleus ‘Dark Star’, so regular watering is necessary, particularly during dry periods. The soil should be kept evenly moist but never waterlogged to prevent root rot. Watering at the base of the plant helps avoid wetting the foliage, which can reduce disease risk.
Coleus ‘Dark Star’ thrives in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. An ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, typically between 6.0 and 7.0. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure improves soil structure and fertility, supporting healthy growth.
Coleus ‘Dark Star’ prefers warm, humid conditions; light frost can damage them. Wait until nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50-55°F before moving plants outdoors in spring. Moderate humidity is generally preferred.
During the active growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. For container plants, a half-strength solution every 1-2 weeks is suitable. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can diminish foliage vibrancy.
Pinching back the growing tips of young plants encourages bushiness and prevents legginess. This practice directs the plant’s energy into producing more leaves, enhancing its compact appearance. Removing any flower spikes also helps maintain focus on the foliage, as coleus are primarily grown for their leaves.
Propagating and Overwintering
Coleus ‘Dark Star’ is readily propagated from stem cuttings. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem 4 to 6 inches long and cut just below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves, ensuring any submerged part is free of foliage.
Cuttings can be rooted in water in a bright, indirect light location, with roots appearing within weeks. Alternatively, insert cuttings directly into moist, well-draining potting soil. Once rooted, new plants can be potted into larger containers.
In cooler climates, where Coleus ‘Dark Star’ is grown as an annual, plants can be overwintered indoors before the first frost. Dig up healthy plants, pot them in well-draining soil, and bring them inside. Place them near a bright window (south or southeast-facing) or under grow lights for adequate light during shorter winter days. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant indoor period, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings, as plants grow slower in winter.